Transport Options in Ireland
Getting around Ireland by train or bus is a great way to see the country's sights if you are traveling alone or if you want to base yourself in various cities. Otherwise, renting a car is the preferred way to see Ireland's finest, most-hidden sights, especially if you are traveling with your family.
For those wanting to see as much of Ireland as possible without having to drive, the following options are your best bet. While flying can be expensive and is quick, taking a train is the easiest and most efficient way to get from point A to B. Taking the bus is the slowest and cheapest option.
Flying
Flying intra-Ireland can be expensive but it is possible. Aer Arann flies into Dublin, Donegal, Sligo, Waterford, Knock, Galway, Kerry, Cork, and Derry.
Alert
Many buses and coaches are a “request-stop only” service. Therefore, be sure to wave down the bus as it approaches or else it may not stop. This is best done with your arm extended, palm out, and waving downward.
Train
Irish Rail (Ianród éireann) has service from all over the Republic and into Northern Ireland. Most trains spread out from Dublin to major cities and towns.
In Dublin, Heuston Station serves trains going to the west and south (Waterford, Cork, Limerick, Galway, Westport). Pearse Station has trains to the southeast (Wicklow and Wexford). And, Connolly Station serves trains to the north (Sligo and into Northern Ireland: Belfast, Portrush, and Londonderry). Donegal has no train service.
Eurorail offer deals should you be traveling throughout Europe and want to include Ireland (but not the United Kingdom or Northern Ireland) on your itinerary.
Bus
Bus éireann runs routes all over Ireland, including some smaller towns. Fares are half the price of its rail counterpart. In Ireland, a “coach” serves long-distance routes, while a “bus” serves inner-city routes. Translink called “Citybus” in Belfast, connects all of Northern Ireland.
Buses are by far the best way to explore the west coast and the northwest of the Republic if you do not have a car.
Traveling by bus and train around the Irish mainland is more relaxing than driving. Trains are nicely equipped; some have outlets you can plug your laptop or music device into. Trains and buses are rarely off schedule and take you through some of Ireland's most pastoral settings.
Reduced Rates
The Emerald Card allows unlimited travel on buses, rail, and metro in Ireland and Northern Ireland for eight days (during a 15-day period) or for 15 days (during a 30-day period).
An Irish Rover Ticket, which lasts three, eight, or 15 days is a better deal and must also be used within a certain travel period. The Freedom of Northern Ireland Card is good for one, three (during an eight-day period), or seven consecutive days and is only valid in Northern Ireland. The BritRail plus Ireland rail pass is more expensive and is only worthwhile if you plan to visit Wales, Scotland, and/or England during your trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers who don't mind being on the move should check out Paddy Wagon Tours for great deals on multi-day journeys.
